The Gibson Upright by Booth Tarkington
page 32 of 105 (30%)
page 32 of 105 (30%)
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GIBSON: The money for every piano you make and sell is yours--every cent of it. MIFFLIN [_rising transfigured_]: Gentlemen, a glorious time has come! This is an example to every employer of labour in our land. I thank that power which destined all men to be equal both in service and reward that I should have chanced to be present to see such a splendid band of forward-looking fellows--of brothers, of comrades--come into their own! Let us hope that this great moment but marks the beginning of an epoch when every capitalist and manufacturer shall see the light as Mr. Gibson has just done. As spokesman for these--these men, Mr. Gibson, I would congratulate you for anticipating the inevitable and certain world future! You have done well for yourself to perceive it. I am sure on that account you leave here with their respect. And to you I should think it might be some relief-- GIBSON: Relief? I should think it might! And you can translate that into your nineteen languages and dialects--including the Scandinavian! As for you men--you wouldn't work for me--now see if you can work for yourselves! Good-bye, Miss Gorodna! [NORA, _who has been looking at him tensely, inclines her head slightly. He opens the door that leads to the street and goes out decisively. There are exclamations from everyone, loud but awed. "Say, look here, look here, look here!" "Give it to us!" "Equal shares! Did you hear what he said?" |
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